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Writer's pictureKings Of Street Outlaws

Damon Merchant’s Big Block Chevy Controversy on No Prep Kings!

The realm of underground racing is perpetually infused with tension, and as of late, all eyes have converged upon the tumultuous saga involving Damon's contentious big block Chevy episode on No Prep Kings. This piece aims to delve deeper into the whirlwind of excitement encircling Damon's formidable engine and the fervent conversations it has sparked.

Damon Merchant at Street Outlaws No Prep Kings 6

Damon Merchant at Street Outlaws No Prep Kings 6. Photo by Dean Images


For enthusiasts of Street Outlaws and fervent followers of No Prep Kings, the high-stakes racing spectacle and the meticulous regulations dictating the matches have undoubtedly captivated your attention. Yet, Damon's recent maneuver has vigorously shaken the status quo, instigating fervent disputes and dialogues that have taken the entire community by storm.

Mere days following the release of a video showcasing Damon's formidable setup on NPK, social media platforms ignited with fervent energy. What ignited this wildfire of excitement? Damon unveiled visuals depicting the comprehensive overhaul of his engine. Suddenly, the digital domain buzzed with live streams, debates, and conjecture, each fueling the burgeoning dispute.

Damon Merchant and new setup for the next half of NPK

Damon Merchant and new setup for the next half of NPK. Photo by Damon Merchant


At the heart of this contention lies Damon's distinct configuration, which appears to qualify for a substantial reduction in weight as per the existing No Prep Kings Season 6 regulations. This eligibility is not a novel development; it harks back to the show's early days, extending as far as Season 2. Interestingly, other racers like Reaper and Jeff Lutz have delved into analogous setups, albeit infusing them with their own unique nuances.

Jeff Lutz, a name inseparable from high-performance racing, chooses a gas aluminum trick flow block. Although not an exact match to a production GM big block Chevy block, Lutz's selection draws less attention. Then enters Damon, armed with a CN Billet aluminum block, showcasing the prowess of modern engineering. This block deviates considerably from the typical GM big block Chevy block, yet it stands apart from Hemi or a 481x, inhabiting a gray zone that falls in line with the established regulations.


Veteran racing aficionados have found themselves embroiled in spirited discussions regarding the legitimacy of Damon's configuration. Figures like Jim Howe and Pat Musi, owing to their profound understanding of engines, assert that Damon's block diverges substantially from the traditional big block Chevy, transforming it into a wholly distinctive entity. While their standpoint holds merit, its validity rests upon the interpretation of the rules.


However, it is crucial to recognize that Damon's setup has received official approval within the confines of the rule framework. While it may push the boundaries of the conventional definition of a big block Chevy, it remains in accordance with the stipulations outlined by the competition. This situation gives rise to intriguing inquiries regarding the ambiguous zones present within rulebooks and how they can be tactically exploited to secure a competitive edge.

Damon Merchant and Rogue

Damon Merchant’s Big Block Chevy Controversy. Photo by Damon Merchant


As conversations evolve and sentiments surge, it prompts contemplation about what lies ahead. Might this debate instigate alterations in the rulebook for the upcoming season? Could there be a scenario where weight penalties are introduced for big block Chevys utilizing Billet blocks? This intricate crossroads encapsulates the interplay between the viewpoints of experienced racers, such as James and Pat, and Damon's valid advantage as it operates within the boundaries of the existing regulations.

Damon Merchant and Rogue

Damon and Rogue was roll'in in VMP. Photo by Dean Images

Ultimately, the controversy surrounding Damon's big block Chevy on No Prep Kings shines a spotlight on the intricacies of competitive racing. It serves as a poignant reminder that even within the meticulously governed domain of racing, realms of interpretation, innovation, and discussion thrive. Amidst the thundering engines and the ongoing discourse, one undeniable truth emerges: this dispute has breathed new life and exhilaration into the already thrilling universe of No Prep Kings.

Video by Rogue 405



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